During a neutering campaign, farmers in Gotse Delchev region that often take in the most dire cases of strays call us once again to ask for our help. We go to their farm...

...to be greeted by the shocking sight of a shaggy, bare bones creature. A pathetic looking dog that has no strength left to move. She was found on the side of the road recently and has been treated with antibiotics for two weeks with no improvement.

We offer to take the dog in immediately and treat her in our clinic. The farmers agree gladly.

We perform the necessary checks, involving tests for the most common life-threatening diseases for dogs as well as blood tests.

Much to our relief the test results are negative but her blood work shows a serious infection.

Bella is terribly feeble, very dehydrated, and needs feeding through an IV.

Her treatment includes two types of antibiotics, daily doses of IV solution, and keeping her warm.

After the first week we try to get her to eat regular food but she has literally forgotten how to eat so we have to continue feeding her liquid food.

In a fortnight, her stay in our 'intensive care' unit begins to give good results. Bella can feed herself and her blood tests come back fine. She goes back to the farm.

Four months later we come back to pick up Bella for neutering. She has gained weight and is feeling well. She hasn't forgotten us.

Bella and the rest of the animals have to stay contained on the farm in their enclosure for most of the time, because the farm is situated along a busy road and its fence is still being built. Hopefully, everyone will be able to roam free soon enough.